GRACE-FILLED REFINING
1 Peter 4:12-5:11
The Message v. 4:13: …”Be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.”
1 Peter 4:12-5:11
The Message v. 4:13: …”Be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.”
Destin struggled with everything while his leg was in a cast. He couldn’t carry anything hobbling around on crutches. At first, he barked orders to his sister, Jennifer, to get him what he needed. Later, he felt ashamed when all she wanted to do was to sign his cast. (179dev Paralysis). Of course family members eagerly helped him, whenever he asked. But he was too proud to be a constant nag. He dangled a bag from the crutch grip and stuffed things he needed inside. Doing for himself replaced his self esteem. One day he met some friends for a baseball game at the park.
“Hey buddy, you’re getting around pretty good on those things!” one friend greeted him.
“It’s getting easier now. You should have seen me a week ago!”
“Ready to play some baseball?” another friend dared Destin.
“I’ll play First Base” Destin offered, hobbling to the bag, his glove flopping from his crutch grip.
“You sure?” the pitcher wondered.
Destin stood on his left leg edging the bag, his casted right leg infield. He punched his right hand into his gloved left hand and nodded. “Let’s play ball!”
The first hit ball grounded to third base. The third baseman snatched it up and threw a bullet to Destin at first, with the runner blazing towards the bag. Destin caught the ball, stopping the runner mid-stride. Whew, that’s weird Destin thought, slightly rattled.
“That’s one!” the pitcher announced.
Next hit ball was a high pop up that sailed over the center field’s head. The runner tried rounding first base heading for second, and smacked Destin to the ground. “Sorry Des!” he apologized, returning to first base. He helped Destin to his feet.
Red-faced and huffing, Destin looked to his buddies. “Sorry, guys. I guess I’ll have to wait awhile before playing ball.”
“Bummer, Des. There’re drinks in my cooler if you want.” The second baseman offered. “You should be safe sitting on the bleachers.”
“Thanks, Wally” Destin said. As he watched the game, he reflected this past week’s humbling experiences.
Take Home Nugget
Our heavenly Father teaches all His children. He humbles the proud, and exalts the humble. His grace extends to all who struggle through trials. Our job is to grasp His grace and courageously endure the learning experience with patience, spirit, and strength.
Salvation is a miracle that takes one moment, when we embrace Jesus as our Savior. Sanctification, consecration, and perseverance take a lifetime.
J.D. Griffith
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